Neil Giraldo: Yeah, I remember that first rehearsal. We locked into something that just felt right. Pat’s voice was unlike anything I’d ever heard, and it made me want to push the boundaries of what we could do together musically. Plus, we just clicked as people. That made all the difference.

TRR: Your chemistry is legendary, and it has translated into some of rock’s most iconic songs. Looking back at albums like Crimes of Passion and Precious Time, what stands out to you the most?

Pat Benatar: Honestly, how fast everything happened. One moment, we were hustling, trying to break through, and then suddenly, we were on this wild ride with hit records, massive tours, and music videos on MTV. Those albums were really where we defined our sound, blending rock and pop in a way that wasn’t common at the time.

Neil Giraldo: Those records were also when we really solidified our creative process. I wanted the music to have a tough edge to match Pat’s power as a vocalist. Songs like “Hit Me with Your Best Shot” and “Promises in the Dark” had that perfect balance of melody and grit.

TRR: You’ve been together as a couple since the late ’70s, which is rare in the music industry. What’s the secret to your partnership, both personally and professionally?

Pat Benatar: Respect. We’ve always had a deep respect for each other’s talents and perspectives. We don’t always agree—trust me, we have our moments—but at the end of the day, we know we’re on the same team.

Neil Giraldo: And laughter! You have to keep a sense of humor. The music business can be tough, but we’ve always made sure that family comes first. That’s been a huge part of our longevity.

TRR: Speaking of family, your daughters have grown up surrounded by music. Have they inherited the musical gene?

Pat Benatar: They both have incredible musical instincts. Our older daughter, Haley, is a musician, and our younger daughter, Hana, has a great ear too. But we never pushed them—they grew up in the music world, so they saw both the highs and the challenges. We always wanted them to follow their own passions.

Neil Giraldo: Yeah, and they’ve done just that. We’re proud of them for being independent and creative in their own ways.

TRR:  You were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022. What did that moment mean to you?

Pat Benatar: It was surreal. We never made music for the accolades, but to be recognized alongside so many of our heroes was incredible. And to share that moment with Neil—because we’ve always been a team—made it even more special.

Neil Giraldo: It was a long time coming, but it felt great. Our fans really fought for us to be in there, and we’re so grateful.

TRR:  You’re still touring and performing. What keeps you motivated after all these years?

Pat Benatar: The fans. There’s nothing like being on stage and seeing people singing along to songs that have been part of their lives.

Neil Giraldo: And we still love playing. The music still feels fresh to us, and as long as we’re enjoying it, we’ll keep going.

TRR:  Looking ahead, do you have any new projects in the works?

Pat Benatar: We’re always working on something! We’ve been writing new music, and we’re excited about where it’s going. We’re also working on a stage project that’s been in development for a while, so stay tuned.

Neil Giraldo: And, of course, more live shows. We still love bringing the music to the fans, and that won’t stop anytime soon.

TRR:  That’s great to hear. Any final thoughts for your fans?

Pat Benatar: Just a huge thank you for sticking with us all these years. We couldn’t have done any of this without you.

Neil Giraldo: And we’ll see you on the road!

TRR:  Thank you both so much—it’s been a pleasure.

Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo: Thank you Kreig!

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Benatar/Giraldo